Elaine G Phillips, 85, of Mount Dora returned to her maker on Saturday, January 4th.

She was born to the late Fredrick and Inez Schmid, January 25, 1928 in Jackson, Michigan and was raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She met and married her lifetime partner of 63 years, Gordon, at the University of Michigan. They raised their family of two sons, David and Gary, in Southfield, MI before retiring to Eustis, FL in 1983.

She was known for her bright colored clothes and friendly greetings to both friends and potential new friends. Being a very generous and giving person to the many groups she cherished was one of her signatures of life. Her outgoing and friendly personality will be missed by us all.

Elaine was a homemaker and participated in many organizations in the community. She was a true leader and served on the Board of Directors for the Southfield Hockey Club and despite having two sons, was a Girls Scout leader for many years. Also among her volunteer roles was serving as president of the United Methodist Women of St James UMC in Detroit, MI and later First United Methodist Women of Mount Dora. She also was an active member of Mount Dora Garden Club and former president of the Women's Committee of Fine Arts of Mount Dora.

She had a deep love for the fellowship at the First United Methodist Church of Mount Dora and was a member for over 30 years. Christmas was a very special time for her as she would display over 500 Santa Clauses throughout her house. Elaine would also decorate her house for her beloved Michigan Wolverines and entertain when they played in a bowl game.

Elaine is survived by husband, Gordon, sons Gary and David, and daughter-in-law Mary. She is also survived by Granddaughters Dana McDonald and husband Mike, and Trisha Dillon and husband John.
In lieu of flowers the family is asking that donations be made in her name to the Mount Dora Women's Committee of Fine Arts, PO Box 1053, Mt Dora, FL 32757 (attn: Ingrid Scherb) or the First United Methodist Women of Mount Dora, 439 E Fifth Ave, Mt Dora, FL 32757.

A memorial will be held from 4pm - 7pm on Friday, January 17th at Allen J Harden Funeral Home. The church service will be held at 11am on Saturday, January 18th at First United Methodist Church of Mount Dora with a luncheon to follow at the Fellowship Hall.